Nkankezi bridge repair to begin soon

The government says work to repair Nkankezi bridge in Insiza will commence at the end of this month after US$14,5 million was availed for emergency works on the country's road infrastructure.

Nkankezi bridge, which links Mbalabala to Zvishavane, was destroyed by cyclone induced rains last month and travellers are currently using an old access road which is not convenient for some heavy trucks.

The Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Engineer Michael Madanha said the government has availed US$500 000 for the repair of the bridge and re-establish smooth movement of goods and services.

"Work on Nkankezi bridge will commence at the end of March and will be completed in six weeks," he added.

Engineer Madanha also said the government through ZINARA will also be availing financial resources to rural and urban local authorities as well as the district development fund to repair the country's damaged roads.

US$100 million is required to rehabilitate the country's road infrastructure with the worst affected provinces being Matabeleland South, Masvingo and Midlands.

The services of the Zimbabwe National Army have since been enlisted in repairing the road infrastructure.